From the Arctic to Antarctica

Discover the city of two halves, Valparaíso, and enjoy a short sojourn in Viña del Mar to visit the Fonck Museum. Valparaíso’s upper area, Los Cerros, is a maze of residences nestled among 42 hills, from historic villas to small dwellings. Marvel at the views from the top, overlooking the city and bay below. Gaze out over the port and its cluster of colorful houses, then visit the Baburizza Palace, admiring its important collection of artworks by European and Chilean artists. Descend to the foot of the hill for a stroll around Plaza Sotomayor and view the naval headquarters building and the solemn Monument to the Heroes of Iquique. Continue by motor coach to the resort city of Viña del Mar and visit the Fonck Museum, a former mansion featuring archaeological artifacts and historic items from the Chilean mainland and Rapa Nui (Easter Island).

Drive across the lush Chilean Coastal Range from Valparaíso to metropolitan Santiago, Chile’s capital city. Founded in 1541, Santiago is located in the country’s central valley, between the Chilean Coastal Range and the Andes Mountains. The city has a downtown core of 19th-century, neoclassical architecture and winding side streets dotted with art deco and neo-Gothic treasures. Take a scenic drive past the modern sights, including the presidential palace and the beautiful cathedral in Plaza de Armas, and visit the intriguing Museum of Pre-Columbian Art. Then, continue through one of the hillside neighborhoods, the views overlooking Santiago giving it a more modern appearance. After lunch, enjoy time to explore your locale at your own pace, then continue to Patio Bellavista, a lively cultural hub featuring artisan stores, boutiques and galleries, before returning to your ship.

Meet some of the artists that maintain Valparaíso’s historic role as an artistic and cultural haven. Located on a string of steep hills overlooking a beautiful bay, Valparaíso has long been a magnet for poets, painters, philosophers and other creative personalities. You will have the opportunity to meet three artists that keep this tradition alive, engaging in conversation as you visit their studios. Each stands out due to its location and structure, reflecting each artist’s individual style. Get a sense of the artists’ vision of the city and discover their connection with the porteño lifestyle. Learn about the techniques and processes that inspire their work, from concept to the creation of a beautiful masterpiece. Conclude your visit with a stop for refreshments and appetizers at a local restaurant with magnificent views over the bay before returning to your ship.

Journey into the Casablanca Valley and sample a selection of the region’s renowned vintages. During a scenic drive, you will learn about how the area’s warm climate, ocean breeze and nutrient-rich soil results in fine wines similar in character to those from Northern California’s Napa Valley. At your first stop, you will be greeted by your host and taken on a tour of the vineyard. From the patio, pause to overlook the pinot noir vines, then walk through the process of winemaking before sampling a selection produced on the estate, accompanied by a cheese platter. At your next vineyard, enjoy more of the region’s vintages, including a tasting of sparkling wines. You will then take your seat for lunch while admiring views over the rolling hills. Your appetite sated, return to your motor coach for the scenic ride back to your awaiting ship.